DDOT looking to hire 70 new drivers as service expands

(WJBK) - The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) is in the midst of its largest expansion in more than 20 years.

"We're making the service work for what the people really need," said Dan Dirks, DDOT director.

Many buses across the city are now making additional stops. Three routes added 24-hour service, and another service added goes directly to Eastern Market on Saturdays.

"Folks wanted to get to Eastern Market especially on Saturday. And quite honestly, we didn't have much service except for a couple of areas. So it made sense to us to try these fresh market services, we call it, from the different areas and see how it works," Dirks said.

Dirks says the city needs good bus drivers more than ever, looking to fill more than 70 jobs immediately. The pay starts at $12.50 an hour plus benefits.

"We're basically looking for folks, first of all, who like to work with the public and have a safe driving record, quite honestly. We'll train them to get their commercial driver's license," Dirks said.

We're now two weeks into this huge expansion, and DDOT officials are very happy with its success and feedback from riders.

"It's more convenient. Because you don't have to wait that long. We (will) have to about the winter time," said Consuela Cleveland, a DDOT rider.

The expansion an will add about 1,500 new bus trips in Detroit by January, making the city much more accessible for many trying to make a living.

"It feels good. People don't have to walk so much," said Kevin Cleveland, a DDOT rider.

Dirks says the second part of the expansion will be in January,

"We are already hearing from the mayor (that) we need to do something after that, so our foot's to the throttle," he said.